In the wake of the confusion that prevailed among parents and students, The Maharashtra State Examination Council has clarified that the National Talent Search Examination (NTSE) will be conducted only for Std X students from this year onwards. The exam, which has also been held for Std VIII students for several years, stands cancelled.

The National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) conducts NTSE nationwide annually to identify talented students and nurture them.

Most parents and students who already started preparing for NTSE for Std VIII are disappointed due to cancellation of the exam for them. Some have already joined the classes and paid the fees, which has caused a financial loss due cancellation of the exam without notice and at such time when students have already started preparing. The decision should have been publicised before the start of the session, said some parents.